South Side Surprise

            Most of the baseball hype in Spring Training has revolved around one Chicago team: The Cubs. Of course, the Cubbies have been everything the pundits predicted so far. The North Siders are 15-5 and are sitting pretty in first place in the NL Central. However, they're not the only team from Chicago that's doing well so far.
            Their brethren from the South Side is also perched atop their division. That's right. Even ahead of the defending World Series champions, the Kansas City Royals. In fact, the White Sox have the most wins in baseball at the moment with 16. How in the world are the White Sox doing so well early in the season?
            For starters, Jose Abreu has gotten some protection in the lineup. The White Sox picked up Todd Frazier from the Reds this offseason and it's already paying off. Frazier has six homers and 15 RBI to start the season. He isn't the only player who's been hitting well for the White Sox. Adam Eaton's been great to start the season, batting .307 with an OBP of .361 and 27 hits. Melky Cabrera has also been a solid pickup, batting .296 with a .380 OBP.
            The White Sox are also benefiting from a stellar bullpen. David Robertson has been every bit of good for the White Sox as a closer. He has eight saves out of nine opportunities so far to go with an ERA of 0.87 and a WHIP of 0.77 (He's projected for 56 saves this season). Nate Jones has also been spectacular, getting seven holds while allowing three hits. He's also posting an ERA of 0.84 and a WHIP of 0.47. Matt Albers (0.00 ERA, 0.75 WHIP, six holds in ten games this season) has also been solid.
            However, the main story for the White Sox has been the rotation. Their starting pitching ERA is 2.94, third-best in baseball. Their team also has five shutouts, tied with Philadelphia for tops in baseball. Obviously, you know about Chris Sale (5-0, 1.66 ERA, 0.68 WHIP, 32 SO) and he hasn't disappointed this season. Other starters have done well, too. Mat Latos (4-0, 0.74 ERA, 0.82 WHIP) has been a great pickup for the White Sox and Jose Quintana (3-1, 1.47 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 32 SO) has stepped up for the White Sox.
            Could we potentially see a Windy City World Series come October? As of now, we don't know. There's still a lot of baseball to be played. However, if both of Chicago's teams keep up their terrific play, there could be a big-time match-up between the Cubs and the White Sox come fall. The ratings for this potential series will be big and so will the bragging rights.

NFL's Worst Draft Busts

            It's the week of the NFL Draft, which means that there's going to be a lot of Mel Kiper and draft analysis on your televisions. Who will fill what needs for their teams? Who will be the breakout star as a rookie? Who will be a bust? Speaking of busts, here's a list of some of the biggest busts in the NFL.

1. Ryan Leaf: There was a lot of talk between two quarterbacks in the 1998 draft that were going to be the next big thing(s). One was Peyton Manning. The other? Ryan Leaf, who turned out to be one of the most notorious busts in NFL history. In fact, NFL Top 10 rated him as the biggest draft bust in NFL history. He has a career completion percentage of 48.4%. He's also thrown 14 touchdowns and 36 interceptions in his short career. Then there's this outrageous, yet hilarious outburst from Ryan Leaf.
2. Johnny Manziel: I think it's safe to say that Johnny Football's a draft bust. The former Heisman Trophy winner hasn't been able to steer away from trouble, having recently been indicted in an alleged assault of his ex-girlfriend. He's also been known to be one of the biggest party animals out there, posting photos of his escapades on his Instagram account.
3. Akili Smith: Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round of the 1999 draft (third overall), Smith has big things expected from him in Cincinnati. However, his failure to grasp the Bengals' playbook and contract disputes cut into his time with the Bengals. In his 17 games with Cincinnati, he's thrown five touchdown passes to go with 13 interceptions and a QB Rating of 52.8.
4. Most of Cleveland's 1st Round Draft Picks Dating Back to 1999: Johnny Manziel's included in this. In that same 1999 draft, the Cleveland Browns selected Tim Couch from Kentucky. Couch played four years with Cleveland before being cut (he finished his career with 64 touchdowns and 67 interceptions). Trent Richardson (2012) hasn't been able to find any holes and can barely find work in the NFL. Brady Quinn's (2007) now a color commentator for FOX. Courtney Brown (No. 1 overall in 2000!) only played six seasons at defensive end before calling it a career. It's safe to say that Cleveland hasn't been able to work a draft successfully in the past couple decades.
5. JaMarcus Russell: Despite finishing 21-4 in his collegiate career with LSU, Russell hadn't been able to find success in the NFL. Only playing three seasons in the NFL with Oakland, Russell's problems included weight issues, holding out on training camp, poor play, and getting arrested for possession of codeine syrup. He's tried to make an NFL comeback in recent years.

Worst Owners in Sports (NHL Edition)

            Today, we take a look at some of the worst owners in the NHL today. Not everyone can buy a hockey team and win four Stanley Cups while making the postseason for 25 straight years and turning Detroit into 'Hockeytown' the way Mike Ilitch can. So here's a salute to some of the owners that are nowhere close to the owner of the Detroit Red Wings.

1. Sunrise Sports and Entertainment, Florida Panthers: The Florida Panthers surprised everyone by making the playoffs this year, their second playoff appearance in fifteen years. Florida was the first NHL team in history to miss the playoffs for nine consecutive seasons in one city. There are constant talks about the Panthers relocating with the team mired by a history of attendance issues. The ownership is even $99 million in the red, bleeding money from the franchise. At least they make money for every other event held in BB&T Center, though. 
   
2. Josh Harris, New Jersey Devils: This once-proud franchise is also having financial problems, owing the NHL $230 million in debt at one point. The NHL is close to taking over the team, but that's not the only issue that has Devils fans seeing red. Harris landed in a helicopter in the middle of a kid's soccer game, prompting the wrath of many soccer parents in the Meadowlands. 
   
3. Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, Toronto Maple Leafs: It's been a looooooooooong time since the Maple Leafs last won the Stanley Cup. In fact, the Blue Jays have brought Toronto their most recent title, winning two World Series titles in the 1990s. The Maple Leafs have only one playoff appearance in the last eleven seasons, with their only appearance being a Game 7 chokejob to the Boston Bruins. The most points the Maple Leafs have amassed in the past 11 seasons is 91 in 2006-2007... And they still missed the playoffs. Attendance is still great, but it seems that the ownership only cares about money and not winning.
   

Honorable Mentions: Predator Holdings LLC (Nashville Predators), Daryl Katz (Edmonton Oilers)

Celebrating Sports' Biggest Potheads

            Today is April 20th, a holiday for weed smokers everywhere. People are firing up blunts to celebrate the non-official holiday. To commemorate this day, we take a look at some of sports' biggest joint smokers.

1. Josh Gordon: The Cleveland Browns receiver has failed a few drug tests in his young NFL career. He's been tested for marijuana and dilute in the latest test, testing positive in two samples for both. Gordon's applied for reinstatement into the league, but he's had no luck so far. Gordon did have a great 2013 season, hauling in 87 passes for 1,646 yards and nine touchdowns.
2. Ricky Williams: Ricky Williams isn't just known for running over 10,00 yards in his short NFL career. The former Heisman Trophy winner has been notorious for firing up a blunt every now and then. In fact, Williams is a firm believer that cannabis can help NFL players.
3. Jordan Schafer: The former Atlanta Brave was arrested and charged in Florida for felony possession of marijuana. One noteworthy highlight of Schafer's career is that he was the 99th MLB player to hit his first career homer in his first career at-bat.
4. Michael Phelps: You might know Phelps for winning the most gold medals in Olympic history (18) and for being one of the most recognizable swimmers ever. You might also know that he's hit the bong a couple of times. He's even acknowledged that the photo taken was real. Phelps won eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, topping Mark Spitz's record of seven.
5. Usain Bolt: The fastest man in the world has broken numerous records on the track. The Olympic gold-medal sprinter has also admitted to trying weed during his time in Jamaica.Anything to slow down, I guess.
6. Carmelo Anthony: The New York Knicks star was cited in 2004 for marijuana possession after authorities discovered weed in his travelling backpack. Anthony was also cited when his roommate was stopped for a routine traffic check. He did escape both charges, but he hasn't been able to escape the conference finals.

Pleasant (And Unpleasant) Surprises This MLB Season

            There have been plenty of newsworthy items this season with more to come. There's also been plenty of teams who are playing well along with teams who aren't.

(Pleasant Surprise) Colorado Rockies: Led by the unlikely hero who's carving out his own 'story', the Rockies are 6-5 to start the season. SS Trevor Story (.300, seven home runs, 13 RBI) has been very impressive to start the season. Having Carlos Gonzalez (.375, four home runs, ten RBI) and Nolan Arenado (five home runs, 15 RBI) helps as well.
(Pleasant Surprise) Baltimore Orioles: Mark Trumbo (.386, five home runs, 11 RBI) and Manny Machado (.383, four home runs) are leading an Orioles lineup that is hitting the most home runs in baseball (23 home runs so far). Chris Davis (five home runs, ten RBI) has also helped in the longball barrage, earning every cent of his new contract (at least so far).
(Pleasant Surprise) Chicago White Sox: All the hype this preseason has surrounded the team from the North Side. However, the South Siders have been making some noise of their own. The Sox have started 8-4 thanks to stellar starting pitching. It's not just Chris Sale (2.35 ERA, 0.78 WHIP in three starts) that has been outstanding. Mat Latos (0.75 ERA, 0.50 WHIP in two starts) has provided immediate rotation help along with Jose Quintana and Carlos Rodon.
(Unpleasant Surprise) Houston Astros: Yes, Tyler White (.375, four home runs, 11 RBI) has been outstanding for the Astros so far. Dallas Keuchel (2-1, 2.18 ERA in three starts) hasn't lost a step from his Cy Young season last year. However, the Astros are dead last in the AL West with a record of 4-8 due to a team ERA that is 27th in baseball (4.93). The pitching's also 24th in WHIP (1.41) and 25th in opposing batting average (.273).
(Unpleasant Surprise) Minnesota Twins: What was a season filled with promise and hope has turned into a deflating reality for the Twins. Minnesota's started the season by losing their first nine games. The Twins are dead last in runs scored (25) and 26th in team batting average (.215). Joe Mauer's (.366) doing well, though!!
(Unpleasant Surprise) New York Mets: The defending NL champions haven't stormed out of the gate. They've missed Jacob DeGrom for a couple starts because DeGrom had to tend to his sick child. The Mets haven't been able to take advantage of a weak NL East, having lost four straight to the Marlins and the Phillies at one point. However, the Mets have won three of their last four.

A Tribute to Kobe

            Today will be the last game ever for Kobe Bryant. His career averages going into his last game consists of the following:

• 25 PPG
• .447 field goal %
• .330 three-point %
• .837 free-throw %
• 1.4 steals per game

            His achievements are endless as well. He has accomplished the following throughout his illustrious career that spans back to 1996:

• 2008 MVP
• 2009, 2010 NBA Finals MVP
• Made the All-NBA First Team in the years 2002-2004 and 2006-2013 (Total of 11 times)
• Made the All-NBA Second Team twice (2000, 2001)
• Made the All-NBA Third Team twice (1999, 2005)
• Made the All-Rookie Second Team in 1997
• Made the All-Defensive First Team nine times (2000, 2003-2004, 2006-2011)
• Made the All-Defensive Second Team three times (2001-2002 and 2012)
• Four-time All-Star MVP (2002, 2007, 2009, 2012)
• Five-time NBA Champ

            To salute the Black Mamba and to send him off in his next adventure, we present some of the greatest highlights of Kobe Bryant's career. Here's a tribute to one of the best players in all of basketball.

WATCH THIS: Recorder kid

            Things that make you go: "What did I just watch?" This is based off the popular sound clip, "AND HIS NAME IS JOHN CENA!!"

Worst Announcers Ever

            Have you ever heard an announcer or broadcaster that was so bad that you had to mute them? If so, then this list is for you! This list doesn't include Rick Jeanneret, who's actually a legend in the NHL circles. We take a look at some of the worst announcers that are offered by certain teams because not everyone can be like Jeannert or Chick Hearn. Did your favorite announcer/broadcaster make the list?

1. Chip Caray, Atlanta Braves: Unfortunately, Chip isn't anything like his grandfather Harry. Chip is notorious for misjudging fly balls, often mistaking a pop fly for a potential home run. He's been fired by TBS because people didn't know if he was actually watching the game (many will say it was Richard Sandimor with his New York Times piece, but Chip still stinks). 
2. Ken Daniels, Detroit Red Wings: If I wanted to listen to a Wings game, I'd rather turn on the radio and listen to a guy like Ken Kal. Kal pays attention to the hockey game and doesn't go off on tangents about silly tales the way Daniels and Mickey Redmond do. One of Daniels' calls is even a drop for the Opie and Anthony Show.
3. Jack Edwards, Boston Bruins: The Hawk Harrelson of the NHL, Edwards likes to yell at players to "GET UP" after they've been knocked down. Even a former NHL referee said that Edwards had "no credibility". There was also one time where Edwards ripped the officials a new one after an alleged blown call. He evens sings a Christmas song!!
4. Paul Steigerwald, Pittsburgh Penguins: You be the judge on whether or not he deserves his spot. That's some brutal stuff.
5. Bill Worrell, Houston Rockets: The Houston Rockets have the worst NBA broadcast according to AwfulAnnouncing.com. The site says that Worrell portrays a "GET OFF MY LAWN" attitude, indicating that Worrell is an old curmudgeon. His partner, Clyde Drexler, isn't much better. He has a tendency of whining about the refs during the game.
6. Hawk Harrelson, Chicago White Sox: Hawk is the mere definition of the term "homer". You can tell just by how he freaks out every time the baseball's hit in the air. He purposely miscalled a home run as a "can of corn" this week!! Hawk Harrelson's on-air ramblings have even earned him his own soundboard.
7. John Sterling, New York Yankees: Without a doubt, the worst announcer on this list. You can't get any worse than John Sterling. He gives chummy nicknames to a Yankee player whenever they hit a home run. He also does over-the-top exaggerations whenever the Yankees win. He's only likable when he's doing commentary for All-Star Baseball 99. Let us not forget this little work of art.

How to Stop the Warriors (?)

            The Golden State Warriors seem destined to break the 95-96 Chicago Bulls' record for having  the best record in a NBA season. They are nipping at 73 wins and only need four more to reach that plateau. But how in the world can anyone stop them? Let's try and come up with some ways to stopping these Warriors.

1. Take Stephen Curry's teammates out of the equation: Let's face it. It's pretty much impossible to guard Stephen Curry. If you try to take the paint away from the reigning MVP, he'll just lob up a three... And nail it no matter where he's at. Try to take the perimeter away and he'll drive to the basket. You can only hope for Curry to have an off-night if you want to stop him, so it'd be wise to focus on his teammates. Take Klay Thompson out of the game. Take Draymond Green out of the game. When the Dallas Mavericks beat Golden State on Dec. 30 by a score of 114-91, the Warriors' highest scorer was Ian Clark (3.7 ppg this season) with 21 points. Thompson and Green both shot four of 15 from the field in that game and Curry was absent for that game.
2. Score, Score, Score: The Warriors might be extravagant scorers, but they do allow over 100 points a game. Get someone who can score on them, especially with Curry defending said player. Kentavius Caldwell-Pope is a good example. The Pistons shooting guard held his own against Curry as he had 20 points against the Warriors on January 16. Detroit won against Golden State 113-95. Pistons center Andre Drummond chipped in 14 points in the win. Another great example is Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard. Lillard had 51 points when the Blazers won 137-105 on February 19, draining nine three-pointers in that game. Getting everyone to score will be the key to keeping up with the Warriors. Speaking of Andre Drummond...
3. Outrebound: In that Pistons win, Drummond had 21 rebounds. The Celtics outrebound the Warriors on Friday by a count of 57 to 48. The Warriors aren't guaranteed to score every time, so it's a good idea to have someone pull down some boards. On the season, the Pistons are tied for third-best in rebound differential at +3.8. Who's No. 2 on that list? San Antonio, who has a +4.0 differential (The Spurs outrebounded Golden State 59-43 on March 19). Portland comes in at No. 10 on the list at +1.9 and Denver, another team that beat Golden State this year, is No. 9 at +2.2. Oklahoma City is the leader in this category with a +8.3 differential and they've would've beaten Golden State in a couple games if it weren't for them collapsing in the fourth quarter. Outrebounding Golden State might not win you the game outright. However, it'll make matters much easier and take away second-chance points from the Warriors. 
4. Commit Turnovers: Portland caused Golden State to commit 20 turnovers when they won on February 19. The Boston Celtics created 22 turnovers as they recently ended Golden State's 54-game winning streak at home. Cause the Warriors to lose track of the basketball so that they have fewer chances to score.

On the Playlist

            Welcome to another edition of "On the Playlist"! This is where I show you what's playing on my playlist and give you the opportunity to listen. Check it out!!

Internet Randomness: April Fools

            We welcome you to another edition of "Internet Randomness"! Today is April Fools Day, so we're celebrating some of the biggest "April Fools" on the internet!! Here we go!

                                                                                                                                 
Eli Manning should be the highest paid Tweeter

Magic Johnson should cut his tongue, then sneeze in Craig Shoemaker's face.

I would love to breed her with a black baby and watch her breat feed our caramel
colored baby with those humongous milk filled utters.

Wait till God hears about this.

It was just confirmed that the Patriots head of technology has been refferring
to himeslf as "the jammer" in recent text messages to Tom Brady.

MIKE BOLSINGER GOT THE RUNS LAST START FROM BAD SHELLFISH. TRY THAT

THIS SALAD IS SO DELICIOUS

BOBBY BONILLA DOESNT CALL JG WENTWORTH HE JUST CALLS THE METS WHEN HE NEEDS CASH

I THINK MATT BOYD IS AWESOME!

FUCK JOHN HIRSCHBECK

MICKEY MOUSE IS CONFIRMED AS ANGELS GM, AND HE'S GOING TO GO FULL FANTASMIC ON
YOUR BITCH ASSES. HE'S ALSO GOING TO ENDOW THE SOON-TO-BE-SIGNED JEFF MATHIS
WITH THE POWERS OF BEING ABLE TO ACTUALLY HIT A BASEBALL SO Y'ALL BITCHES BETTER
WATCH OUT.

I'M GOING TO GET BLACKOUT DRUNK AND HIT ON YOUR GIRLFRIEND WHILE WEARING MY OMAR
INFANTE JERSEY!!!!!!!

McCUTCHEN McSUCKS!!

Tuscaloosa, where Ancestry.com and eHarmony.com are the same thing. Best. Sign.
Ever.

I got banned from my favorite server because I threatened to put WD40 on all
the 13-year-old's voice boxes.

THERE'S WATER ON MARS FAM!!!!!!!!!!

You know what the Nats need? Juan Uribe

Where my fried chicken at doe

If the Cubs win tomorrow, you'll read about me in the news...I'll be the one
arrested for running up the street wearing nothing but a Cubs t shirt

If I cut my hand off, I can get a prosthetic hand to fap with and bam! Permanent
ghost faps for life. This page is genius.

My cousin broken his ankle falling off the edge of a sidewalk. ...does that mean
side walks are fake?

Played this song to a burger,now its a king.

i played this to a gay dude and hes straight now.

Last time something dropped this hard Japan surrendered.

Showed this to a black man and he turned white